Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 3rd gear

[SmithMark]

I have a 96 3500 dually with manual. 149k miles on it. at 144k I had its 4th clutch plate put in ( I tow over 13k lb horse trailer with it). For the last few hundred miles it grinds when I go to 3rd gear unless I am going under 15 mph, then it is ok. grinding seems to gradually be getting worse. Whats the prognosis? FYI , i'm a family doctor , not a mechanic. should I get it fixed now or wait? planning on buying a new 3500 when the 2010 models come out.

 

[Missouri Mule]

Try "double clutching" when you go in to 3rd and see if that helps. You mite make it home doing that then have it checked out. If it doesn't help you should have it checked out.

 

[SmithMark]

thanks, I'll try it

 

[champspa]

check the hydraulic reservoir for the clutch . since I have a auto , someone who has a manual chime in. does it have a reservoir?

 

[Missouri Mule]

Yes it does.

 

[BigPapa]

Well Doc, mine's been doing the same for over 150K miles. The reason it doesn't do it below 15-20MPH is because at that speed it's "synchronized", or turning the same speed or slower, as the input shaft.



My transmission had almost 100K on it when I put it in my truck. I don't know how it was serviced during that time, but when the fellow put it in mine he put in a GL-5 lube instead of the recommnded Castrol Synchro GL-4. I drove it @ 10K miles before I found out. I then put the Castrol in and it helped some but didn't quit. I have since gone to the Amsoil lube and it's no different.



I don't know that it was the GL-5 but I know it can damage the synchros in the NV4500. It hasn't gotten better or worse. Just one of those things I figure I'll live with until it breaks.



Scott

 

[SmithMark]

Scott, if you've lived with it that long, guess I will to.

Mark